Error Code Reader

Soldato
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I have a Mk4 Skoda Octavia, over the weekend the airbag warning light came on and stayed on during my journey. Can anyone recommend a basic OBD that’s easy to use?
I have booked my car in at Skoda, but if the fault is intermittent it may not show up on the day, so the need for having one myself.
 
If there's a fault flagged it should be stored in the ECU, even if the car is not currently suffering from it, so the guys should still be able to pick it up.

The problem with basic OBDII readers is that they won't show every fault, and those it does pick up will be generic codes rather than anything specific to your car.
For VAG cars (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, etc) you really need the proper VAGCom or RossTech software, otherwise you could end up chasing several possible faults that have nothing to do with the specific problem. The Skoda guys should have this.
 
If there's a fault flagged it should be stored in the ECU, even if the car is not currently suffering from it, so the guys should still be able to pick it up.

The problem with basic OBDII readers is that they won't show every fault, and those it does pick up will be generic codes rather than anything specific to your car.
For VAG cars (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat, etc) you really need the proper VAGCom or RossTech software, otherwise you could end up chasing several possible faults that have nothing to do with the specific problem. The Skoda guys should have this.
Ok, thanks.
 
Ok, thanks.
You could still get one if you have concerns. It will give you basic info and some idea of what area of the car in which the fault has been detected... just be aware it's a generic thing and may end up being useless, which could get expensive if you chase the fault. High end cars and those with optional extras tend not to have all that stuff listed, so the scanner is just a starting point for diagnosis:

"All OBD2 scanners can retrieve basic trouble codes, but some are unable to read manufacturer-specific codes. Consider getting separate make-specific scanners for different car brands to perform more in-depth diagnostics".

"Parts or components should not be replaced with reference to only a DTC. The vehicle service manual should be consulted for more information on possible causes of the fault,along with required testing.
For example, if a DTC reports a sensor fault, replacement of the sensor is unlikely to resolve the underlying problem. The fault is most likely to be caused by the systems that the sensor is monitoring, but might even be caused by the wiring to the sensor itself.
DTCs may also be triggered by faults earlier down the line. For example, a dirty MAF sensor might be causing the car to overcompensate in its fuel-trim adjustments.As a result, oxygen sensors are likely to report fuel mixture problems".



Torque Pro, mentioned above, can be fun if you're really into your car, though. Real Time data, especially. I have it, but almost never use it these days as my mate is a mechanic with all the pro software.
 
It shouldn’t need saying, but don’t delete the code (I’m sure you wouldn’t).
We get so many cars in where either the customer or recovery service has wiped the code, then we’re supposed to diagnose it.
 
It shouldn’t need saying, but don’t delete the code (I’m sure you wouldn’t).
We get so many cars in where either the customer or recovery service has wiped the code, then we’re supposed to diagnose it.
yes but thats why we were equipped with crystal balls:)
gotta love erased codes and that elusive fault that only occurs every 3rd monday of the month when the wife moves the car......in the rain:) oh and the planets align....
 
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Coincidentally I just listed my OBDEleven reader (designed for VAG cars) up for sale in the MM, if you have access. :)
 
It shouldn’t need saying, but don’t delete the code (I’m sure you wouldn’t).
We get so many cars in where either the customer or recovery service has wiped the code, then we’re supposed to diagnose it.
I always read the codes and then deleted them to find the correct code, used to find to many historic codes could lead you up the garden path, most complaint would be the O2 sensor fault, customer would say they replaced the sensor and the light came on again.
 
Hex v2 cable (Get it from Ali) + VCDS (Copy on a disc comes with the cable usually, not hard to find one online though). Unless you don't have a laptop..
 
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Hex v2 cable (Get it from Ali) + VCDS (Copy on a disc comes with the cable, not hard to find one online though). Unless you don't have a laptop.
do you have to consecrate a dedicated older laptop though ?
I'd been reviewing this site https://iamcarhacker.com/best-obd-ii-scanners-for-vw-audi-skoda-seat/
But again, a separate laptop is recommended since you will provide access to someone and the antivirus has to be disabled.
wanted something for the VAG/A4 I got

[but also would like to make some option changes - add subwoofer volume - which seems needs some other kit too

Download Carscanner mobile App (Pro version needed) and you need a ELM327 dongle - I used a Carista dongle Carista dongle
]
 
That warning is for remote coding when someone logs into your laptop to code on your behalf. This is was zed coding does for a lot of BMWs
 
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OK - I thought just the license for a clone VCDS (code-reading alone) may need an obscure remote authorization.
along with potential malware in software downloaded - so the two liabilities may necessitate a isolated laptop.
 
do you have to consecrate a dedicated older laptop though ?
I'd been reviewing this site https://iamcarhacker.com/best-obd-ii-scanners-for-vw-audi-skoda-seat/
But again, a separate laptop is recommended since you will provide access to someone and the antivirus has to be disabled.
wanted something for the VAG/A4 I got

[but also would like to make some option changes - add subwoofer volume - which seems needs some other kit too

Download Carscanner mobile App (Pro version needed) and you need a ELM327 dongle - I used a Carista dongle Carista dongle
]
I've a dedicated laptop, but it's also on my private. No issues.
 
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